Crane Creek State Park, situated along Lake Erie’s shores and home to one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes, boasts a diverse population of reptiles, amphibians and mammals, from reptiles to amphibians and mammals. Herons, waterfowl and warblers find refuge near its lakeshore while bald eagles and other raptors are frequently seen flying above its sandy beach area – as are various wetland insects and sand crabs!
The Matanzas River Park provides free boat access for small private boats and kayaks, while also providing a scenic spit of land with paddle board/kayak rentals, fishing spots and fishing rod rentals. In addition to all this there’s also a sandy beach for swimming or relaxing plus nature programs and educational activities at the Visitor Center – perfect for small group outings!
Montclair residents and visitors celebrated Crane Park’s latest addition — a demonstration garden — Sunday afternoon with residents and visitors from Montclair. This project of Northeast Earth Coalition Inc. in Montclair, Friends of Crane Park, the Montclair Center BID and several volunteers has come to fruition through an exciting demonstration garden program that will enrich Crane Park while teaching people how to grow flowers and vegetables.
German explained that both of the beds planted have been designed to produce something in all four seasons; winter plans involve planting evergreens with fruit bearing evergreen trees that attract birds, showing people they can have gardens even with limited spaces in their yards. The purpose is to demonstrate that anyone can have access to gardening at any time or location – including their own yards!
Organizations tabling at this event include Montclair Bird Club, Friends of Watsessing Park, Girl Scouts, AAPI Montclair and Montclair Backyard Habitat Project. It runs until 2:00 pm.
There is an assortment of programs for children at the Park, such as summer camps and nature classes, guided wildlife walks and birding tours held throughout the year, guided wildlife walks/birding tours that take place year round, fishing/hiking opportunities available as well as more traditional programming such as reading programs.
Fall is an especially busy time on the Matanzas River as its sandbar becomes a key destination for migrating shorebirds, serving as breeding grounds for several terns, herons, and pelicans – including endangered roseate spoonbills.
The park offers an abundance of facilities for sports and recreational activities, including baseball fields, bocce ball courts, tennis and horseshoe courts as well as horseshoe pits and horseshoe courts. There is also an expansive picnicking area complete with grills and tables – ideal for family reunions.
